Online Reporter
Daniel Chigunwe-Herald Correspondent
Zimbabwe and Cuba have reaffirmed their enduring bilateral relations and commitment to South–South cooperation following the participation of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Deputy Minister Advocate Nobert Mazungunye at the 5th International Congress Juriscuba 2026.
The engagement, which ran from 2 to 6 February, was held in Havana, Cuba.
It coincided with the 68th anniversary of the establishment of Cuba’s Ministry of Justice and the centenary of the birth of revolutionary leader Cde Fidel Castro, events that symbolise the island nation’s legacy of sovereignty, constitutionalism and social justice.
Key discussions at the forum focused on contemporary issues shaping justice systems globally, including digital transformation and the application of artificial intelligence in legal processes, legislative approaches to the prevention and combating of drugs and substance abuse, as well as the strengthening of legal culture as a cornerstone for the protection of constitutional rights.
On the sidelines of the commemorations, Advocate Mazungunye held bilateral talks with Cuba’s Minister of Justice Rosabel Gamon Verde, with discussions centring on enhancing cooperation between the two ministries through exchange of expertise, institutional strengthening and mutual learning.
“The meeting provided an opportunity for our two countries to share experiences and best practices in the administration of justice, particularly as we navigate emerging issues such as digitalisation and artificial intelligence,” said Adv Mazungunye.
Zimbabwe and Cuba enjoy deep historical ties dating back to the liberation struggle, underpinned by shared revolutionary values and solidarity.
“Our relations with Cuba are rooted in history. During the time of the revolution, some of our comrades received training in Cuba, and that bond has continued to grow over the years,” he said.
Adv Mazungunye also spoke about the broadening scope of cooperation between the two nations, pointing to human capital development, particularly in the health sector.
“Zimbabwe has benefited immensely from Cuba’s support in the training of doctors, which stands as a testament to the practical and people-centred nature of our bilateral relations,” he said.
Reaffirming Zimbabwe’s foreign policy stance, the Deputy Minister echoed President Mnangagwa’s long-standing diplomatic principle that Zimbabwe is a “friend to all, enemy to none”, noting that the country remains committed to strengthening relations with all nations based on mutual respect and shared interests.
The Havana engagement underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to advancing progressive legal frameworks, deepening diplomatic relations with longstanding allies and promoting international cooperation in addressing contemporary justice and governance challenges.
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